Falling in love: An evolutionary perspective on the role of psychological needs

Kruglanski et al. frame romantic love as a quest for significance. This commentary expands their model by integrating an evolutionary perspective, linking significance to mating and reproductive success. It highlights how additional psychological needs – such as emotional security, arousal, and sexual satisfaction – also shape romantic love. By situating these needs within evolved functions, the commentary clarifies how significance interacts with other motivational systems in the emergence and dynamics of romantic love.